As Ideal Home’s Certified Expert in Vacuums, my home doubles as the ultimate vacuum cleaner testing ground. And while there are some serious perks to this (a very clean home being one of them), there are also some downsides. The main issue? My home is tiny, and some vacuum brands just aren’t suited to smaller spaces with limited storage.
Yes, it’s fair to say that the best vacuum cleaners come in so many different shapes and sizes. And while bigger models typically offer larger dustbins and increased suction power, they make it much harder to hide a vacuum cleaner in smaller homes where cupboard space – and even floor space – isn’t a given. But that doesn’t mean you have to settle for a smaller, less effective vacuum.
After spending 400 hours testing vacuums in my tiny Victorian terrace, I’ve come to realise that some vacuum brands have nailed the small-space-friendly design better than others. And if you’re on the hunt for a new model that doesn’t take up valuable storage space, these are the vacuum brands I’d recommend.
A quick list
If you’re short on time and want to get to the nitty-gritty quickly, these are my winners. But you can read on for my more detailed assessment of vacuum cleaners for smaller homes – and the specific models I’d recommend.
1. Shark
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The best Shark vacuums are widely considered among the best on the market today, and I have to admit that my own testing experience has been very positive – especially in recent years. This vacuum brand seems to have really upped its game by creating practical-but-powerful vacuum cleaners that also suit smaller homes.
My top pick for small-home dwellers is the iconic Shark Stratos Cordless Vacuum Cleaner, which has been my top-rated model for the past few years. It’s not as high-tech as newer models, but it offers great suction for everyday cleaning, a Flexology wand to clean under furniture, and it folds down for easy storage. In fact, it’s tiny when it’s folded down.
For those who don’t have hidden storage space, another option is the Shark PowerDetect Speed Clean and Empty Pet Pro Cordless Vacuum, which comes with a compact auto-empty dock that is now my go-to vacuum in my small home. And if you don’t have cupboard space, you’ll be happy to know that it now comes in a variety of ‘luxe’ colourways so you’ll actually want to have it on show.
Shark Stratos Anti Hair Wrap Plus Pet Pro Cordless Vacuum IZ420UKT
The perfect grab-and-go cordless, this Shark vacuum folds up for easy (and small-space-friendly) storage. It also comes with two batteries, offering up to 140 mins of run time.
Shark PowerDetect Speed Clean and Empty Pet Pro Cordless Vacuum IA3241UKT
Yes, small spaces can have auto-empty docks, too. It won’t suit every small home, but I’ve come to love the convenience of a proper home for my Shark vacuum – especially as it does a lot of the work for me.
Shark PowerPro Pet Cordless Stick Vacuum
If you’re on a tighter budget, this compact Shark pet vacuum still offers a lot of power – without taking up a lot of real estate. It folds under furniture and in on itself for storage.
2. Henry
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I know what you’re thinking: Henry cylinder vacuums are huge, aren’t they? Well, they can be – but that doesn’t mean that the whole brand is unsuitable for smaller homes. In fact, many of my small-home-dwelling friends swear by the best Henry vacuum cleaners when storage space is limited.
Cylinder models like the affordable Henry HVR160 Vacuum Cleaner are much more compact than larger models (I’m looking at you, Henry XL Plus) and come with onboard tool storage, so you don’t need to worry about storing any unexpected items. Plus, they have large dust bags and a super long corded reach – meaning you may be able to vacuum an entire flat without needing to unplug.
If you prefer the best cordless vacuum cleaners, there’s also the compact and lightweight Henry HVB160 Cordless Vacuum Cleaner, which takes the typical cylinder design and makes it battery-powered. Or, you have the very popular Numatic Henry Quick – a stick vacuum that’s small in size and weighs just 3.2kg.
Henry HVR160 Vacuum Cleaner
Cheap and cheerful, this budget Henry vacuum can still suit smaller homes despite offering the cylinder design. It’s compact, the hose can be disconnected, and the tools are stored on board.
This stick Henry is small and convenient, and perfect for those with limited storage space. Especially as it still offers the same bagged design we know and love.
Henry HVB160 Cordless Vacuum Cleaner
It looks like a classic cylinder, Henry, but this model is cordless and offers up to 30 minutes of battery power. It still offers the onboard tool storage, too.
3. Dyson
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Dyson is my second runner-up, and I’m a huge fan of its vacuum cleaners. And while I won’t lie and say they’re all small and lightweight (some are very hefty), there are a few models that are the perfect mix of cleaning power and small-space-friendly practicality.
The first is the Dyson V12 Detect Slim Absolute, which is undoubtedly one of the lightest cordless vacuum cleaners I’ve ever tested at just 2.2kg, making it ridiculously easy to move around smaller homes. As the name suggests, it’s also very slim and comes with a wall-mounted docking station, so it can be tucked away in a cupboard without encroaching on too much space.
Another option is the Dyson V15 Detect Absolute, which also weighs under 3kg. This model also comes in either the dry or wet+dry version, which means it could also double up as one of the best vacuum mops to vacuum and mop your floors at the same time. So, this’ll free up space too.
Dyson V12 Detect Slim Absolute
Sleek and slimline, this small-space-friendly Dyson vacuum can be mounted on the wall without taking over your home.
Dyson V15 Detect Absolute
Very similarly-sized to the V12, this model offers up to 60 minutes of run time and comes with a wall dock for easy storage.
If you have a slightly smaller budget, this cheaper Dyson vacuum can still suit smaller homes. It’s not as high-tech, but it’s basic in its brilliance.
4. Honourable mention: Miele
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While the three brands above are my top choices for vacuum brands that suit smaller homes, I wouldn’t be doing my job properly if I didn’t at least acknowledge Miele too. So, this brand is my honourable mention, as I believe it also has a lot to offer small home dwellers.
In fact, the Miele Duoflex HX1 Cat & Dog is currently my top-rated vacuum in our best vacuum cleaners for pet hair guide, as I rate it so much. And considering Miele is typically known for its larger, cylinder vacuums, this cordless stick model is a welcome addition to a premium brand.
With onboard storage for the tools, everything can be kept neatly together, and the lightweight design is both easy to manoeuvre and to store out of the way. Or, if you’re feeling creative, you could build your own vacuum cleaner storage to hide it out of sight.
Miele Duoflex HX1 Cat & Dog
This cordless, lightweight stick vacuum is extremely powerful and tackles pet hair with ease. The onboard tool storage is a nice touch, too.
Miele Guard M1 Cat & Dog Flex
If you have a bit more space, this cylinder model is also a great choice. I loved that I could keep the tools inside the cylinder while testing.
Miele Triflex HX3 Aqua Cordless Vacuum Cleaner
We’re going to be testing this new Miele model very soon, as it’s ideal for small home dwellers. Not only is it a compact vacuum, but it’s got a swappable wet mopping floorhead, too!
I hope this is proof that you don’t need to sacrifice a good vacuum just because you live in a smaller home!
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